Mission Istanbul: A Thrilling Exploration of Terrorism and Media
A Unique Take on Terrorism
Mission Istanbul presents a sophisticated narrative on terrorism, steering clear of the amateurish portrayals often seen in local cinema. The film, crafted by Apoorva Lakhia and co-writer Suresh Nair, accurately captures the political nuances surrounding terrorism, enhanced by the stunning Turkish landscape that adds authenticity to the unfolding drama.
Intriguing Characters and Plot
The story revolves around a news channel embroiled in terrorist activities, with Nikitin Dheer portraying the channel's head who mingles with a terrorist played by Shabbir Ahluwalia. Zayed Khan, as a journalist, alongside Vivek Oberoi, confronts both the media mogul and the fearful terrorist, resulting in a captivating narrative that blends satire with the grim realities of terrorism.
Humor Amidst Tension
Despite its serious theme, the film incorporates moments of humor, particularly in the witty exchanges between an impersonated 'George Bush' and his aide. However, some scenes, like Shriya Sharan's character receiving incessant phone calls during an interview, feel overly exaggerated. Nevertheless, Lakhia's attention to detail in researching international terrorism is commendable, as he effectively portrays the chaos of insurgent violence.
Action and Entertainment
In a strikingly bizarre scene, Vivek Oberoi's character uses a victim's hands for entry into a terrorist stronghold, showcasing the film's blend of dark humor and action. Zayed Khan's character, a newsreader, navigates the dangerous world of terrorism while also finding time for dance, illustrating the film's unique approach to integrating traditional song-and-dance into a serious narrative.
Musical and Editing Excellence
Amar Mohile's intense background score amplifies the film's suspenseful atmosphere. Mission Istanbul successfully oscillates between an adventurous tone and a serious news report style, with Lakhia's energetic direction making the film engaging. However, the subplot involving the estranged couple feels less convincing, akin to an incongruous song in a bar.
Final Thoughts
Mission Istanbul effectively captures the essence of its themes, with Zayed Khan and Vivek Oberoi delivering commendable performances. The film is a high-octane mix of action, terrorism, and revenge, though it does slow down in the second half, transitioning into a more conventional hero-versus-villain narrative. The editing by Rajesh Singh stands out, particularly in the first half, setting high expectations for the latter part.